University of Pikeville extends president’s contract through 2018

May 20, 2014

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UPIKE celebrated record enrollment and the addition of two new colleges this year

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (May 20, 2014) — The University of Pikeville ended the academic year on a high note, celebrating a record enrollment and the addition of two new colleges. In a vote of confidence for university president Dr. James L. Hurley, the board of trustees on Friday unanimously voted to extend his contract through 2018.

After serving as executive vice president for four years, Hurley became the first alumnus in the school’s history to lead his alma mater. This fall, UPIKE will commemorate 125 years of service to the people of Central Appalachia.

Dr. James Hurley is president of the University of Pikeville.

“The board of trustees affirmed their pleasure with the direction of the institution under the leadership of Dr. James Hurley by unanimously approving an extension of his current contract,” said Board Chairman Terry Dotson. “As an alumnus, I am personally happy with the progress Dr. Hurley has made in his first year at the helm of the university. The board could not be more proud of his leadership growth, his attitude and his work ethic. As we enter our 125th year, the University of Pikeville is in good hands with a positive direction and future.”

One of the fastest growing four-year institutions in the south, including several consecutive record enrollments, UPIKE is becoming the university of choice for students from Central Appalachia and beyond. The student body includes more than 2,000 students from 41 states and 17 countries.

As he began his tenure last July, Dr. Hurley announced the Coleman College of Business, the third college under the university banner. In February, the university established the Kentucky College of Optometry, an initiative that reflects the institution’s mission of service and strategic vision. The first optometry class will be welcomed to campus in the fall of 2016.

“I am grateful to the board of trustees and honored to continue to serve the entire University of Pikeville community,” Hurley said. “The energy, enthusiasm and momentum at UPIKE is exciting. God is truly blessing us in so many ways.”